As U.S. college admissions become increasingly competitive and American campuses reflect the nation’s political divides, more families are looking abroad for higher education opportunities.
What was once considered a niche option is becoming increasingly mainstream, particularly as American universities expand their presence through satellite campuses in cities such as Abu Dhabi, London, and Shanghai. Plus, tuition and living costs at European universities are often significantly lower than in the U.S., even for international students. Just as importantly, parents are prioritizing global fluency in today’s interconnected world — with universities abroad providing valuable exposure to new cultures, languages, and perspectives.
How European Universities Are Adapting
In recent years, European universities have taken steps to better accommodate American applicants. A significant shift has been the expansion of English-taught degree programs. Admissions processes have also been streamlined, with some schools, like St. Andrews, now appearing on the Common Application and others offering more explicit guidance on how U.S. curricula translate into entry requirements. Many schools are also investing more in international recruitment, tailoring outreach to American families seeking affordability and prestige outside the U.S.
What U.S. Students Can Expect
For American students, certain institutions and programs have long stood out, including business at Bocconi in Milan, international relations at Sciences Po in Paris, engineering at Imperial College London, and economics at the London School of Economics. These options appeal to those who want to dive directly into their chosen fields, without the general education requirements more common in the U.S., where universities tend to take a more liberal arts-focused, holistic approach. In contrast, colleges outside the U.S. are often more pre-professional and specialized, allowing students to focus intensely on a specific discipline from day one.
Similarly, the European admissions process is highly academic and generally more course-based rather than narrative-driven. Decisions largely hinge on whether applicants have completed the appropriate AP or IB classes and achieved the required scores, often in specific subjects tied to their intended field of study. Increasingly, the SAT is also becoming a kind of “global ticket,” with more European universities either requiring or strongly encouraging SAT or ACT scores or listing them as one way to meet their entry requirements.
One distinction families should keep in mind is that European universities expect students to be highly independent. Academic environments are generally more self-directed. Reading matters enormously; students who are strong, independent readers and thinkers and can demonstrate this through the application process are best positioned to thrive.
Guidance for Advisors
For advisors, supporting families in developing a global application strategy means broadening the conversation beyond finances. While cost is an essential factor, the unique academic opportunities, international exposure and long-term mobility these institutions provide make them an alternative worth serious consideration for many American families.
Encourage clients to visit the schools in person whenever possible. Unlike the idyllic U.S. campuses often portrayed in movies, many European universities have a more professional feel and are deeply integrated into the fabric of their cities—whether that’s London, Paris, Milan, or Amsterdam. Experiencing the campus setting firsthand helps families understand what student life will actually look like.
Advisors might also suggest that students try a summer program abroad before committing to a full degree. These shorter experiences allow them to test out the culture and get a sense of the community before making a longer-term decision.